Introduction
Keeping an organized and tidy closet can seem like an impossible task. Over time, closets tend to fill up with clothes, shoes, and other items that are no longer needed. Trying to maintain a clutter-free closet may feel frustrating, but it is possible with some effort. Here are seven common clutter-causing items that should be thrown out of closets right away. Getting rid of these unnecessary things can help maximize closet space and make getting ready each day a breeze.
Old Clothes That Don’t Fit
One of the biggest culprits of closet clutter is clothes that no longer fit properly. This includes items that are too big, too small, or simply out of style.
It’s time to be ruthless and get rid of clothes that:
- Are too tight and cannot be comfortably worn
- Are too loose and hang off your body
- You haven’t worn in over a year
- Are ripped, stained, or damaged
- Are out of fashion and make you look dated
Throwing out old clothes instantly creates more room in your closet. It also eliminates the guilt and frustration of having clothes that don’t fit well taking up precious space.
Only keep pieces that flatter your figure and make you feel confident. If you haven’t worn something in ages, toss it.
Single Socks, Gloves, Etc.
Singles socks, gloves, and other “orphaned” pieces are annoyingly common in closets. Over time, mates often get lost in the laundry or misplaced.
Rather than saving orphaned items, get rid of any:
- Single socks or gloves
- Mismatched earrings
- Lone shoe without its pair
Holding onto these odds and ends clutter drawers and takes up space. Toss the singles and reunite pairs so everything in your closet actually gets worn.
Out-of-Season Items
Bulky sweaters and heavy coats in summer? Tank tops and shorts in winter? Holding onto out-of-season clothing is a major closet clutter culprit.
Each season, box up apparel that is not appropriate for the current weather and store it elsewhere. This includes:
- Heavy sweaters, fleece, and jackets in summer
- Fans, shorts, and tanks in winter
- Swimsuits in fall and winter
- Beanies and scarves in spring and summer
This instantly clears up room so in-season clothes are easily accessible. Only keep year-round essentials, like casual shirts and pants, in your closet during off-seasons.
Random Miscellaneous Items
Over time, the bottom or top shelves of closets become a graveyard for miscellaneous, rarely-used items. Eliminate this clutter by getting rid of:
- Old electronics and chargers
- Souvenirs from vacations
- Knick knacks you don’t display
- Old candles and perfumes
- Single shoes or other random pieces
These random things waste space and make your closet feel disorganized. Keep only essentials items you use regularly in your closet space.
Shoes That Cause Pain
Some people stubbornly hold onto shoes that are no longer comfortable. High heels that pinch, sneakers that rub blisters, and boots that squeeze the toes get shoved in the closet “just in case.”
Be picky and purge any shoes that cause pain. Toss or donate:
- High heels that hurt your feet
- Tight shoes that require too much “breaking in”
- Worn out sneakers and sandals with minimal support
Quality footwear should not cause discomfort. By getting rid of shoes that don’t properly fit, you open up space for pairs you actually enjoy wearing.
Baggy Undergarments
Undergarments stretched out from too many wears and washes are common closet clutter culprits. But baggy panties, bras, slips, and shapewear do not provide proper support.
Raid your undergarment drawer and toss anything that is:
- Stretched out and baggy
- Worn or discolored from age
- Pilling or ripped
- Uncomfortable and unflattering
Proper fitting undergarments keep your clothes looking their best. Upgrade anything worn out so undergarments smoothly enhance your figure.
Unwanted Gifts
Be honest – how many unwanted gifted items are taking up space in your closet? Sentiment leads many people to keep clothes, shoes, and accessories given as gifts even if they don’t like them.
Carefully evaluate hand-me-downs and gifted items in your closet. Toss or donate any:
- Ill-fitting clothes from relatives
- Dated styles from well-meaning friends
- Random knick-knacks from old co-workers
Keep only treasured gifts from loved ones that spark joy. Letting go of unwanted gifts reduces clutter while freeing up room for pieces you truly love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is decluttering your closet important?
Decluttering your closet creates space, makes getting ready easier, and reduces stress. It also helps you discover forgotten favorite pieces when only quality essentials remain.
What is the best way to declutter a closet?
Start by removing everything from your closet. As you sort through items, be ruthless and get rid of anything damaged, ill-fitting, or not worn in over a year. Only keep pieces you feel great wearing.
Where should I donate old clothes and items?
Good places to donate old clothing and housewares include charity thrift stores, churches, domestic violence shelters, homeless shelters, and more. Some organizations may even pick donations up from your home.
How often should I declutter my closet?
Aim to thoroughly declutter your closet at least twice per year – in the spring and fall when changing over your wardrobe. Quick purge old or ill-fitting items as needed throughout the year too.
Conclusion
Decluttering your closet by getting rid of unnecessary and unwanted items brings peace of mind along with additional space. Follow this guide to identify and eliminate common clutter culprits like old clothes, single shoes, seasonal items, and more. Keep only essentials you regularly wear and that make you feel great. With a tidy closet full of favorite pieces, getting ready is a pleasure rather than a chore.
Here is a summary of the 7 items to throw out of your closet right away to eliminate clutter:
- Old clothes that don’t fit
- Single socks, gloves, etc.
- Out-of-season clothing
- Random miscellaneous items
- Shoes that cause pain
- Baggy, worn out undergarments
- Unwanted gifts
Purging these unnecessary items creates a clean slate so your closet only contains pieces you absolutely love wearing. Follow these clutter-busting tips and enjoy an organized closet that makes getting ready a breeze.